What to Feed a Pregnant Cat

Having a pregnant cat means looking forward to furry bundles of joy and providing your cat with additional support throughout pregnancy and after birth. Pregnant and nursing cats have special nutritional needs, so it's important to understand (and implement) these requirements as you await the kittens' arrival.

Knowing what to feed a pregnant cat is critical to both your feline friend's health and to the health of her kittens and their future offspring. Read on to learn more about the nutritional requirements for pregnant and nursing cats, plus some pointers for keeping mom and babies healthy during these special life stages.

Malnutrition — which can result from too little or too much of a nutrient or nutrients — may result in low birth weight among kittens. According to Small Animal Clinical Nutrition (SACN), this leaves the litter at risk for health issues and reduces the survival rate. So, how can you make sure your cat is getting what she needs? The first step is establishing regular exams with your veterinarian to check in on your cat's health during pregnancy and after birth. They'll help you choose the right food for your cat's needs, but here are the general nutritional considerations:

Calories

Pregnant cats need more calories to support their growing bodies and their kittens as they develop in utero. Cats also require increased calories for milk production, or lactation. In fact, SACN explains that nursing is the most energy-demanding stage of a cat's life.

These calorie needs can vary between cats and can change throughout pregnancy and lactation. Consult your vet for advice about how much to feed your cat at each stage.

Macronutrients

Increased fats and protein help meet this energy demand and allow pregnant cats to store body fat to help offset any weight loss that may occur during lactation. Meanwhile, protein supports the kittens' healthy growth and development. While specific requirements for carbohydrates aren't clearly defined, they also play a key role in supplying energy and preventing weight loss in pregnant and nursing cats.

Micronutrients

Minerals such as calcium, phosphorus and the amino acid taurine are particularly important during this stage of a cat's life to support healthy embryonic development. Most commercial kitten foods have adequate levels of these nutrients, so supplementing isn't necessary if your cat's food meets the nutritional requirements for this life stage per the Association of American Feed Control Officials.

Water

Knowing what to feed a pregnant cat doesn't stop at solid food. Proper hydration is also essential for healthy pregnancy and lactation. SACN explains that water is important for milk production, and the expansion of maternal and fetal tissues during pregnancy also increases your cat's need for water.

There aren't established guidelines for how much water your cat should drink, but make sure to keep cool, fresh water readily available and easily accessible during and after birth. In some cases, your vet may recommend offering your cat wet food to support water intake.

Now that you know what to feed a pregnant cat and how to continue to support her nutritional needs during lactation, here are some additional tips to care for your kitty:

Provide a Cozy Bed

Create a soft, peaceful bedding area for your expectant cat, as she'll want a comfortable, quiet place to nest and give birth. Place her bed in a low-traffic area in a room she enjoys spending time in.

Attend Regular Vet Checks

A typical cat pregnancy (also known as the gestation period) lasts approximately 63 to 65 days, or about two months. So, schedule a vet visit promptly if you think your cat might be pregnant. Your vet may recommend weekly visits to track growth.

Expect Behavior Changes

Your cat may seek more attention or affection from you while pregnant, so don't be alarmed by extra purrs and demands for pets. On the other hand, she may act more aloof. Be patient with your cat either way and do your best to accommodate her changing behaviors.

Monitor Labor

Most of the time, cats labor smoothly and effectively without outside help. Some may even feel stressed if their pet parents try to handle or interact with them during this time. It's best to quietly monitor them with minimal interference.

If you notice heavy, black or bloody discharge before the kittens are born, straining for long periods without producing kittens, distress or marked lethargy, contact your vet immediately.